Lower Bass Lake Campsite

For Minnesotans, the call of the Northwoods is a familiar melody, drawing us to serene lakes, whispering pines, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. While the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) often takes center stage for its deep wilderness experience, many other equally appealing, yet more accessible, camping options exist just beyond its permit-only borders. Today, we're casting our attention to Lower Bass Lake Campsite, situated along the famed Echo Trail near Ely, MN.

Lower Bass Lake Campsite offers a welcoming balance of rustic charm and convenient accessibility, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of Minnesota outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike the remote, paddle-in sites of the BWCAW, this campground is a car-accessible gem, perfect for families, groups, or solo adventurers looking for a peaceful retreat without the extensive planning required for deep wilderness trips. Nestled within the expansive Superior National Forest, it provides a gateway to scenic hiking, a rich historical narrative, and the general tranquility that defines Minnesota's northern landscape. This article will guide you through the essentials of Lower Bass Lake Campsite, detailing its inviting location, the practical services it offers, its distinctive features, and why it's a particularly suitable spot for locals seeking an enjoyable and memorable outdoor escape.

Lower Bass Lake Campsite is located on the Echo Trail, near Ely, MN 55731, USA. The Echo Trail, or County Road 116, is a renowned scenic byway that winds through the heart of the Superior National Forest, just north of Ely. This location offers significant advantages in terms of accessibility. Unlike the more remote, paddle-in only sites of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Lower Bass Lake Campsite is accessible by vehicle, making it convenient for car campers and those with RVs or trailers (though specific site sizes may vary, as noted in some general reviews of similar campgrounds).

To reach Lower Bass Lake Campsite from Ely, you would typically follow Highway 169 east, then turn onto County Road 88 (Grant McMahan Boulevard), and then north onto County Road 116, which is the Echo Trail. The Bass Lake parking lot, which serves as an access point to the hiking trails connected to the lake, is located approximately 6 miles north of Ely on the Echo Trail. This relatively easy drive from Ely means campers have convenient access to the town's amenities, including groceries, outfitters, restaurants, and other services, ensuring that any forgotten items or resupply needs are just a short trip away. The proximity to the Echo Trail also means easy access to numerous other recreational opportunities, including various hiking trails and lake access points, enhancing the overall experience at Lower Bass Lake Campsite.

Lower Bass Lake Campsite, as part of the Superior National Forest's offerings, provides essential services designed for comfortable and responsible outdoor enjoyment. While specific details for "Lower Bass Lake Campsite" itself are limited, based on typical US Forest Service campgrounds along the Echo Trail and information about Bass Lake area camping, the following services can generally be expected:

• Designated Campsites: The campground typically features individual, marked campsites suitable for both tent camping and smaller RVs/campers. These sites often include a prepared tent pad or camper slot.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is generally equipped with a sturdy picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and gathering.
• Fire Grates: Individual fire grates are provided at each site, allowing campers to safely build campfires for cooking and warmth, adhering to local fire regulations.
• Vault Toilets (Privies): Primitive restroom facilities, typically vault toilets or privies, are available within the campground for waste disposal. Some larger campgrounds in the area might have more developed facilities, but for a smaller, rustic site, vault toilets are standard.
• Potable Water Access: While not necessarily at every site, there are usually shared potable water sources available, often in the form of hand pumps, located conveniently within the campground. Campers should always confirm water availability and be prepared to treat water if necessary.
• Garbage Disposal: Designated dumpsters or trash receptacles are typically provided within or near the campground for responsible waste disposal.
• Parking: Each campsite usually includes a parking spur for at least one vehicle.
• First-Come, First-Served or Reservation System: Depending on its specific management, the campsite may operate on a first-come, first-served basis, or it might be part of a reservation system (often through Recreation.gov for Forest Service sites). It's advisable to check current policies.

Lower Bass Lake Campsite offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and engaging history near Ely, MN.

• Historical and Ecological Significance: The area around Bass Lake is historically and ecologically unique. Prior to 1925, Bass Lake and Low Lake were separated by a natural glacial gravel dam. Logging operations led to the construction of a sluiceway, which, due to seepage, eventually washed out in 1925. This dramatic event lowered Bass Lake by 55 feet in just 10 hours, reducing its size by half and exposing approximately 250 acres of land. This makes the area a fascinating study in natural and human-influenced landscape change.
• Access to Bass Lake Trail: The campsite provides direct access to the Bass Lake Trail, a scenic hiking loop. This trail offers varying lengths, including a longer loop of about 5.6 miles around Bass Lake, and a shorter 2-hour hike to a waterfall. This diversity caters to different hiking preferences and fitness levels. The trail is known for beautiful overlooks and varied terrain, offering a rewarding experience.
• Proximity to Waterfalls: The presence of a waterfall accessible via the Bass Lake Trail is a significant highlight, providing a picturesque natural feature and a great destination for a day hike.
• Car-Accessible Camping: Unlike the more rigorous paddle-in sites in the deeper wilderness, Lower Bass Lake Campsite's car accessibility makes it highly convenient for families, those with more gear, or campers who prefer not to portage.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Being situated on the Echo Trail, away from major highways, contributes to a generally quiet and peaceful camping environment, allowing campers to truly relax and enjoy the sounds of nature.
• Proximity to Ely Amenities: The relatively short drive to Ely provides easy access to supplies, restaurants, and other services, enhancing the comfort and convenience of the camping trip.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The surrounding Superior National Forest is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot local fauna, including various bird species, deer, and other woodland creatures.

For inquiries or to plan your visit to Lower Bass Lake Campsite on the Echo Trail, you will typically need to contact the managing authority for this area of the Superior National Forest.

Address: Superior National Forest (The most relevant Ranger District for the Echo Trail and Ely area is the Kawishiwi Ranger District)1393 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Phone: (218) 365-7600 (Kawishiwi Ranger District)

Reservations: For many Forest Service campgrounds, reservations can be made through Recreation.gov. It's advisable to check Recreation.gov or call the Kawishiwi Ranger District directly to determine if Lower Bass Lake Campsite operates on a reservation system or is first-come, first-served.

It is always recommended to contact the Kawishiwi Ranger District or visit the Superior National Forest's official website for the most up-to-date information on campsite availability, current conditions, any fire restrictions, and trail advisories. This ensures you have all the necessary details for a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

Lower Bass Lake Campsite on the Echo Trail offers an ideal blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and historical intrigue, making it exceptionally suitable for Minnesota locals seeking a rewarding outdoor experience. For those who love the idea of wilderness but prefer the convenience of car camping, this site hits the sweet spot. It provides a more relaxed entry into the Northwoods experience compared to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, making it perfect for families with younger children, less experienced campers, or anyone simply looking for a peaceful weekend getaway without the extensive planning of a deep backcountry trip.

The unique geological and historical narrative of Bass Lake, including the dramatic 1925 sluiceway washout, adds an engaging educational component to your stay, offering more than just a place to sleep under the stars. The readily accessible Bass Lake Trail, with its diverse hiking options and a captivating waterfall, provides ample opportunity for exploration and connection with nature right from your campsite. Furthermore, its proximity to Ely means campers can easily resupply, enjoy a meal in town, or explore local shops and attractions, adding a layer of comfort and flexibility to the outdoor adventure. Lower Bass Lake Campsite allows Minnesotans to immerse themselves in the state's iconic northern landscapes, enjoy the tranquility of a forest campground, and delve into local history, all within a comfortable reach. It's a perfect choice for creating lasting memories in the heart of Minnesota's beloved Northwoods.

Lower Bass Lake Campsite

Echo Trail, Ely, MN 55731, USA